HOW TO ELOPE IN CALIFORNIA
How to Elope in California
A simple and intentional guide for couples
If a big wedding does not feel like you, eloping in California might. California offers some of the most beautiful and diverse elopement locations, from quiet beaches and redwood forests to mountains, deserts, and peaceful overlooks. Eloping here gives you space to slow down, be present, and focus on what truly matters, your commitment to one another and the sacredness of your vows.
This guide walks you through exactly how to elope in California in a simple and stress free way.
Choose Your California Elopement Location
California has an incredible range of elopement locations, which can feel exciting and overwhelming at the same time. Start by thinking about how you want your day to feel.
Consider
• Beach, forest, mountain, or desert
• Privacy versus accessibility
• Time of year and weather
• Permit requirements for parks and protected land
Popular California elopement locations include
• The California coast
• Big Sur
• Yosemite National Park
• Joshua Tree National Park
• Lake Tahoe
• Redwood state parks
Get Your California Marriage License
Getting married in California is surprisingly easy.
Here is what to know
• Apply at any California county clerk office
• Both partners must appear together with valid ID
• No waiting period
• License is valid immediately
• Valid for ninety days anywhere in California
Official California marriage license information
https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Marriage-License.aspx
Find a California county clerk office
https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/County-Recorders.aspx
California Marriage Law Requirements
California marriage laws are very elopement friendly and flexible.
To legally get married in California
• Both partners must be at least eighteen years old
• A valid California marriage license is required
• One officiant is required
• At least one witness is required unless using a confidential license (I’m also happy to sign your marriage license as your witness and photographer!)
• The marriage license must be returned to the county clerk within ninety days
California allows a wide range of officiants, including
• Religious officiants or pastors
• Civil officiants
• Friends or family members who are legally ordained
Getting a Friend or Family Member Ordained
If you want someone meaningful to officiate your elopement, California allows friends and family members to become ordained online.
Two commonly used and accepted options are
Universal Life Church
https://www.ulc.org
American Marriage Ministries
https://theamm.org
Ordination through these sites is typically quick and free. It is always a good idea to confirm any additional county requirements when picking up your marriage license.
National Park Wedding and Elopement Permits
If you are planning to elope in a California national park, a special use permit is required for wedding ceremonies and often for professional photography.
The National Park Service provides general guidance here
https://www.nps.gov/subjects/weddings/index.htm
From that page, you will select your specific park, such as Yosemite, Joshua Tree, or Sequoia and Kings Canyon, to find exact permit details, fees, and application timelines.
Permit requirements and approval times vary by park, so it is best to start this process early.
Plan an Intentional Elopement Day Timeline
One of the biggest benefits of eloping is having a day that flows naturally.
Your elopement day might include
• Slow morning coffee or prayer together
• Getting ready without a rush
• Private vows at sunrise or sunset
• Exploring the area and soaking it all in
Your timeline should feel peaceful, unrushed, and centered on your relationship.
Final Thoughts on Eloping in California
Eloping in California is about choosing intention over expectation. Your wedding day can be faith filled, meaningful, and deeply personal. Whether you say your vows along the ocean, beneath towering redwoods, or on a quiet mountain overlook, your elopement can be just as sacred as any traditional wedding.
This is where I come in. I am not just there to take photos, I am there to walk alongside you, help you navigate locations and permits, create a calm and realistic timeline, and make sure your day feels grounded, intentional, and true to you. From the first idea to the moment you say your vows, you are not doing this alone.
If you are dreaming of eloping in California and want someone who values both the experience and the meaning behind it, I would love to help you plan and capture a day that feels like home.
